food and drink – Page 47 – The NEN

Duck & Waffle officially lands in Edinburgh on 1st February

Duck & Waffle will open the doors to its highly anticipated Edinburgh restaurant on 1st February, bringing a brand new, unique eating experience to the city for 2023.

The critically acclaimed restaurant, which is the brand’s first UK venture outside of London, is located within St James Quarter. The restaurant will merge dynamic interiors, unrivalled hospitality, a buzzy atmosphere, and mouth-watering signature fare to create an unforgettable ‘gastro diner’ experience that has become a hallmark of the brand, welcoming guests for breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch.

“We are thrilled to welcome our first guests into Duck & Waffle Edinburgh” explains Duck & Waffle Brand Founder Shimon Bokovza, “From the stunning interior design to the creative dishes on our menu it’s an experience that promises elements of surprise and delight for those who dine with us – no matter the time of the day.”

At the helm of Duck & Waffle Edinburgh’s kitchen is Culinary Director Daniel Barbosa and Executive Chef Lucia Gregusova. The menu is built around its iconic, namesake dish – made with crispy duck leg confit, fried duck egg and a mustard maple syrup on a buttermilk waffle and supported by a playful take on comfort food – a curated selection of signatures and new, location-specific offerings.

Inspired by Scotland’s bountiful selection of products – the freshest produce, seafood, meats, and cheeses – Duck & Waffle Edinburgh’s menu sheds light on the integrity of the ingredients themselves. Vegetable-forward standouts include Pulled Aubergine with lyonnaise onions, goat’s curd and chervil, and Hispi Cabbage with miso brown butter, caperberries, and crispy shallots. From the raw offering: the vibrant Hand-Dived Scallop with apple, jalapeño, and truffled orange dressing; and the brand’s staple Angus Beef Tartare with pickled onion, mustard, Marmite-cured egg yolk, and crispy bread.

Building on a playful spirit of sharing the culinary experience, and an ‘ode to duck,’ are the Duck Sliders – prepared with crispy shallots, scamorza, harissa mayo, and the option to add seared foie gras for a bit of indulgence. And, the decadent Deep Fried Haggis Bar – a rich layering of ox cheek, haggis, and duck fat caramel, served with a side of Bovril.

Rounding out the ‘All Day’ menu are large plates like the famous Duck & Waffle – with two million sold and counting – the Whole Roasted Sea Bass with lilliput capers, potatoes, mussels, beurre blanc, and coriander; and grass-fed steaks sourced from Scottish-local John Gilmour Butchers, distinguished for the extraordinary flavour of their meat, and their sustainable farming efforts.

For morning enthusiasts the breakfast and brunch menus – are not to be missed, showcasing the brand’s iconic sweet and savoury offering including a Duck Benedict prepared with smoked duck breast, the Full Elvis with PBJ, caramelised banana, Chantilly cream, and all the trimmings – inspired by some of ‘The King’s’ favourite ingredients and served over a waffle, or the Duck Egg en Cocotte with wild mushrooms, Gruyère, truffle, and soldiers. New creations for Edinburgh incorporate comforting, international flavours, as seen in the Homemade Chickpea Dhal with grilled flatbread, poached eggs and coriander, and Shakshuka with harissa yoghurt and black chili flakes.

For a sweet finish, the beloved Torrejas – a take on French Toast made with maple caramel apples and served with cinnamon ice cream, and the craveworthy Sticky Toffee Waffle with butterscotch caramel sauce and clotted cream.

“Edinburgh is one of the most charming cities I’ve been to,” shares Culinary Director Daniel Barbosa, “I came across beautiful produce and that has influenced the way the menu was designed. All of our beef, cheese, and shellfish are from Scotland – the quality of the Scottish products is second to none. These preferred purveyors range from Campbell & Sons Quality Meat, Central Produce, and I.J. Mellis cheesemongers, to George Anderson & Sons, David Lowrie Fish Merchants, and Ochil Foods – to name a few.”

Known for its iconoclastic cocktails and signature walk-around cocktail bar, Duck & Waffle Edinburgh will deliver inventive libations and classics, reimagined. Highlights include the bottled Duck & Stormy with Bacardi Carta Negra rum, coconut, lime, and ginger juice, and the culinary-minded Bone Marrow Cosmopolitan crafted with bone marrow-infused Grey Goose. The whimsical Waffle on the Rocks with waffle-flavoured Portobello vodka, St Germain elderflower liquor, Drambuie, and lime cordial layers in nostalgia, while the Yolk’s on You with vanilla vodka, oat milk, green Chartreuse, agave, features bright floral notes and refreshing acidity at the punchline.

Reservations:

Duck & Waffle Edinburgh reservations are now open, and can be made via the website at https://duckandwaffle.com/reservations/ The restaurant accepts bookings up to two months in advance.

Hours of Operation

Sunday – Wednesday 8am -12am

Thursday – Saturday 8am – 1am

Address:

Duck & Waffle Edinburgh

St James Quarter

400-402 St James Crescent

Edinburgh, EH1 3AE

www.duckandwaffle.com

Cost of Living Crisis: Price of medium-sized eggs rising fastest

selective focus photo of three eggs on tray — Photo by Monserrat Soldú on Pexels.com

Shoppers are being advised to buy big if they want to avoid price hikes on eggs this winter – with the cost of very large eggs rising at a slower rate than medium ones.

Experts from price intelligence company Skuuudle have revealed new data which tracks the rising cost of eggs over the past five months.

A box of six medium eggs has risen by 14% while the same number of very large eggs has risen by only five percent according to the data.

In the comprehensive analysis of the price of eggs in the UK, 120 products sold across the seven major supermarkets have been forensically tracked over a five month period up until 5th December 2022.

With fresh food price inflation rising to 14.3% for the 12 months until November 2022 the price of a box of six medium eggs has risen by this figure in just the last five months.

Avian flu has disrupted the supply chain of some egg ranges, tightening supply of the most popular products and pushing the price up of sizes most in demand.

But savvy consumers can find better value on the shelves if they buy a box of six very large eggs rather than smaller sizes.

The data revealed that less popular egg products including the very large size and larger quantities of eggs rose by between five and seven percent whereas the more popular boxes of six large or medium rose by higher percentages.

This might also reflect a need for retailers to sell the most popular products for the highest prices relative to other variants.

Skuuudle generates market-leading data analytics to help retailers understand the markets they are operating in to continue to provide optimum prices for consumers – in the face of rising inflation.

This allows retailers to compare like for like products and accurately track changes in price of the same product across different retailers.

This level of insight is critical when accurately tracking the price of a product such as eggs that are in high demand but subject to supply shortages currently.

A Skuuudle spokesman said that retailers have an unenviable ‘balancing act’ to perform when it comes to pricing, having to consider the needs of the customer, their suppliers and the supply chain.

He said: “Egg shortages have been in the news recently with some supermarkets going as far as rationing the number individual customers can take home.

“These have largely been driven by supply chain issues which have also had an impact on the prices supermarkets are paying to their suppliers.

“What is interesting is how supermarkets are choosing to pass these increased costs onto ordinary consumers.

“Our data reveals that it’s the prices of the high volume products which are rising at the highest rate while variants such as very large eggs, are in effect becoming cheaper compared to medium-sized ones.

“By choosing very large eggs shoppers can avoid some of the price hike although as the cost of very large eggs is higher than medium anyway it may not feel like they are getting a bargain.”

wagamama launches iconic veganuary dish with UK food charity partnership

1 million meals to UK charity The Bread and Butter Thing to benefit low income families

wagamama has launched an iconic veganuary dish with a special partnership allowing one million meals to be donated to low income families.

Guests at wagamama know that every veganuary they can expect new and exciting plant-based flavours to nourish them.

And this year is no exception as it launches a new vegan take on its much missed iconic kare lomen dish adding a veganuary flourish to the regular menu which is already more than 50 percent plant based. This will be launched alongside the new charity partnership with The Bread and Butter Thing.

The vegan ‘chicken’ kare lomen is udon noodles served in a nourishing bowl of coconut broth with a chilli kick, and topped with vegan teriyaki ‘chicken’, coriander, beansprouts and cucumber. It is a fresh, fragrant and warming bowl available in all wagamama restaurants and on Deliveroo for this veganuary only.

This year the delicious veganuary dish will be served up alongside a campaign of support initiatives to help nourish local communities across the country through a partnership with food charity The Bread and Butter Thing which supports thousands of families in over eighty locations.

Set up in 2016, The Bread and Butter Thing brings low-cost food to low-income communities. Those in need of support pay a fraction of the cost for food, which is sourced direct from manufacturers and retailers. It has over 40,000 members and redistributes to over 5,000 families a week who typically pay £7.50 for £35 worth of groceries.

The partnership with wagamama will involve projects in its restaurants and out in the community. Overall, it will see the restaurant chain provide support for The Bread and Butter Thing to deliver 1 million meals worth of food to low income families who use the charity to receive a more affordable weekly shop, at a time when the nation needs it more than ever.

wagamama has already supplied food and bespoke recipes cards to The Bread And Butter Thing and the £25,000 wagamama donation will pay for forty one truck journeys with each able to carry 426 tonnes of food with each tonne equating to 2380 meals. A grand total of just over a million meals.

Teaming up to champion The Bread and Butter Thing’s Warm Hub initiative, wagamama will also be providing warm and inclusive community spaces in selected restaurants – offering free sides to families facing difficult choices between heating and eating. While its team members will be volunteering to support local projects and its chefs will provide ‘wok it don’t waste it’ demos and advise on how to cook nourishing and affordable meals.

wagamama CEO, Thomas Heier, said: “At wagamama we believe in the Japanese philosophy of seijaku; finding calm and tranquillity in the midst of activity. In these challenging times it is important that we all continue to nourish ourselves and our communities.

“Typically, every veganuary we like to surprise and delight our guests with a plant-based showstopper, but we know this veganuary is a little bit different for families across the UK, so it is a privilege this year to support local communities through our newly launched partnership with The Bread and Butter Thing.”

Mark Game, CEO of The Bread and Butter Thing said: “We’re delighted to be entering this new partnership with wagamama. Its philosophy of nourishment chimes exactly with The Bread and Butter Thing’s work to ensure that people in low income communities can access healthy, nutritious food for their families.

“By providing both food and funding to support the unseen but vital logistics that go into making The Bread and Butter Thing possible, wagamama will help us deliver over 1 million meals worth of food to our members who are making really difficult decisions between heating and eating, or even keeping a roof over their heads, in the toughest financial crisis of a generation.”

wagamama has always led the way in making delicious plant-based food accessible and full of flavour, being the first multi-site UK restaurant business to offer a vegan menu on the high street.

In the six years following the launch of its vegan menu in October 2017, the proportion of vegan sales has doubled at wagamama. During veganuary 2022 there was a 12% increase in the proportion of vegan sales from the previous month thanks in part to its limited edition exclusive dish the vegan f-ish and chips.

This dish was one of the highest selling vegan mains during January 2022 and compared to the previous veganuary exclusive they saw an 144% increase in guest participation.

In October 2021 wagamama made half its menu plant-based with a mission to continue inspiring and empowering Brits to give plants a go, one bowl at a time.

wagamama has made vegan versions of all their most popular dishes, collaborated with vegan chef Gaz Oakley to bring guests the world’s first vegan ‘egg’, turned watermelon into ‘tuna’ and eliminated red meat from their test kitchen menu in Old Street, London.

Experts reveal the three foods that will help you get better sleep

Cherries, Kiwis and Bananas are the three foods proven to help you sleep better
Eating 1-2 kiwis an hour before bed will help you sleep longer
Bananas found to contain nutrients that can help you fall asleep faster and for longer

cherries — Photo by Simon Berger on Pexels.com

Sleep experts at Bestmattress-brand analysed multiple scientific studies that have been medically reviewed and found three fruits that aren’t just good for improving your health but also improving your quality of sleep.

With 40% of the UK and 35% of America suffering with symptoms of insomnia there are growing nationwide health concerns. This is due to the range of mental and physical issues that can arise from a lack of sleep.

Diet and sleep are both complex, and every individual responds differently to foods and other remedies that are supposedly good for sleep. However, through meticulous testing these foods have been proven to help give people a great night’s sleep.

Tart Cherries

Tart cherries (Montmorency cherries) or tart cherry juice have been found in studies to have great sleep benefits. In one study It was discovered that consuming two one-cup portions of tart cherry juice daily resulted in the ability to fall asleep faster, more overall sleep time and significantly less awakenings. Thus, the outcome is overall increased sleep efficiency. The same effects have been reported in other tests as well.

The benefits mentioned in these studies may come from the fact that tart cherries have higher concentrations of melatonin, which is a hormone that regulates circadian rhythm (the natural, internal process that regulates the sleep–wake cycle) and promotes healthy sleep. Tart cherry juice also increases the bioavailability of tryptophan which has been found to decrease the time taken to fall asleep. The enzymes within the cherries keep the tryptophan in the body longer so not only do you fall asleep quicker but stay asleep longer.

It’s important to note that tart cherry juice can contain added sugar, when too much sugar is incorporated into a diet can be harmful, so it’s recommended to choose no added sugar options if available. However, the pure fruit is full of antioxidants, vitamins and fibre so can offer many other health benefits such as

Reduces muscle soreness
Reduces inflammation
Improves brain function
Strengthens immune system

When adding the fruit or the juice into your bedtime routine it’s advised to consume daily in the morning and 1-2 hours before bedtime for optimal effect.

Kiwi

Kiwifruit are well known for their significant number of nutrients and antioxidants as well as high levels of fibre, folate and potassium. However beyond just their health values, kiwis have been said to have sleep inducing qualities, allowing those who eat it before bed to fall asleep faster and for longer. It’s been hypothesized that the high antioxidant capacity, serotonin and folate content of kiwifruit may contribute to the observed sleep benefits of kiwifruit consumption. 

Serotonin is one of the key chemicals that is found in high doses in kiwis. It is an end product of L-tryptophan metabolism, which is related to rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and low levels may cause insomnia.

Folate deficiencies can also lead to symptoms of insomnia and fatigue, thus the levels of folate in kiwis could improve sleep quality for those who suffer with sleep conditions. It’s also been suggested that the anti-inflammatory antioxidants in kiwis, such as vitamin C and carotenoids, may be partly responsible for their sleep-promoting effects as well.

The research shows in this study that when kiwi was consumed over a period of 4 weeks it was found to improve sleep onset, duration and efficiency. Although it’s been noted more research is currently required into kiwis, the current studies suggest that eating 1-2 kiwis an hour before bed may help people to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

Bananas

Along with being a good source of magnesium, vitamin B6, and protein, Bananas are widely known for having a lot of potassium. The hormones serotonin and melatonin that are produced as a result of these nutrients are key to falling asleep faster and staying asleep longer.

Tryptophan, an important amino acid that can be found in bananas, has been shown to enhance the quality of sleep. Since tryptophan cannot be produced by the body, eating a banana helps to increase levels of the amino acid. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation by slowing down signals to nerve cells, and tryptophan aids in the production of serotonin. Melatonin, a hormone that induces sleep and regulates our circadian rhythm, often known as the sleep-wake cycle, is regulated by serotonin.

Bananas are also a good source of magnesium, which supports a healthy circadian cycle, the body’s internal clock. Magnesium also impacts the hypothalamus, a region of the brain that regulates the pituitary and adrenal glands. These glands enhance the stress hormones when magnesium levels are low. A banana can be the ideal food to help you relax before bed because stress and worry are frequently linked to sleep issues including insomnia.

Given that bananas are among the top sources of potassium, it is important to note the health advantages of potassium. Low potassium levels make your muscles rigid, which leads to cramps and spasms, making it difficult to get a good night’s sleep. A banana’s additional potassium aids in successfully stopping and starting muscle contractions, reducing the likelihood that cramps and spasms may keep you awake.

The combined nutrients and chemicals, and impacts these have on the body, make bananas a great bedtime snack to help those who struggle to sleep.

A spokesperson from Bestmattress-brand commented: “With a growing number of people suffering from sleep related medical issues it’s important that people are aware of small lifestyle and diet changes that could potentially help them get the sleep that they need.

“These foods are not only delicious but can be incorporated easily into any diet for kids and adults, with studies and research proving that it’s not just quality of sleep that is enhanced but overall health as well.

Diet can be an excellent tool in managing mental and physical health issues and it has been extensively documented by researchers and medical professionals, in many cases diet being proven to offer great natural remedies to health issues including sleep. Although it’s worth consulting your GP before making any drastic changes to your diet.”

Morrisons kickstarts 2023 with price cuts on it’s Savers range

– Over 50 per cent of the range has been cut in price –

Morrisons is cutting 130 prices across its entry-level products to help customers’ money go further throughout the January squeeze.

The cuts include important fresh and frozen products for family meals and lunch boxes, together with cupboard essentials and household products to help customers across their shop.

Morrisons has invested over £16 million to make these cuts as customers look for help on their weekly shop after the expense of Christmas and as the cost of living crisis continues to impact household grocery budgets.

Fresh products such as bacon, cooked chicken and cheese which can be used to make hearty meals have had their prices reduced as well as fruit and vegetables including apples, pears and potatoes.

Frozen ready meals, fish fingers and prawns have been cut along with cupboard fillers like tins of beans, chopped tomatoes and tuna chunks. Household essentials such as laundry powder, washing up liquid and dishwasher tablets have also seen their prices slashed as have toothbrushes, toothpaste and sanitary products.

Morrisons entry level range has 263 products, 28 of which were new additions within the last six months. This month the range will grow further with the introduction of cherry tomatoes, easy peel oranges, green beans and mixed peppers.

David Potts, Chief Executive, Morrisons, said: “Our Savers range offers customers great value on the products they buy every day.

“We want to do all we can to help when it comes to the cost of grocery shopping and by investing in the range and cutting the prices further, our customers will see a noticeable impact on their budgets at a time when they really need it.”

Morrisons price cuts will be communicated to customers via TV, radio, press, digital display and social media as well as email and online activity.

On the website, the Savers range will be highlighted on the homepage under Morrisons ‘More Way to Save’ section and until January 22nd, the seasonal aisle in Morrisons stores will feature displays of the ambient Savers products in one place to help customers shop the breadth of the range, while the fresh and frozen items will have prominent displays in their aisles to help customers identify them.

SAVERS PRICE CUTS: BREAKFAST EXAMPLES	WAS	NOW
MORRISONS SAVERS WHITE LOAF MEDIUM SLICED 720g	£0.45	£0.39
MORRISONS SAVERS ORANGE MARMALADE 454G	£0.52	£0.33
MORRISONS SAVERS ORANGE JUICE FROM CONCENTRATE 1L	£0.89	£0.75
MORRISONS SAVERS MUESLI 1KG	£1.39	£1.25
SAVERS PRICE CUTS: MID-WEEK DINNER EXAMPLES	WAS	NOW
MORRISONS SAVERS ITALIAN STYLE HARD CHEESE 170G	£1.70	£1.59
MORRISONS SAVERS PASTA SAUCE 440G	£0.57	£0.39
MORRISONS SAVERS LONG GRAIN RICE 1KG	£0.71	£0.48
MORRISONS SAVERS TUNA CHUNKS IN BRINE 145G	£0.65	£0.55
MORRISONS SAVERS CHILLI CON CARNE 392G	£1.49	£0.97
MORRISONS SAVERS PLUM TOMATOES IN TOMATO JUICE 400G	£0.33	£0.28
MORRISONS SAVERS TOMATO KETCHUP 460G	£0.79	£0.36
MORRISONS SAVERS 10 FISH FINGERS 250G	£0.79	£0.69
MORRISONS SAVERS BEEF LASAGNE 400G (FROZEN)	£0.89	£0.75
MORRISONS SAVERS MILD WHITE CHEDDAR 625G	£3.19	£2.99
MORRISONS SAVERS CHEESE AND TOMATO PIZZA 270G	£0.99	£0.89
MORRISONS SAVERS SMOKED BACK BACON 250G	£1.25	£1.12
MORRISONS SAVERS COOKED CHICKEN PIECES 240G	£1.99	£1.79
SAVERS PRICE CUTS: HOUSEHOLD EXAMPLES	WAS	NOW
MORRISONS ESSENTIALS MEDIUM TOOTHBRUSHES 2 PACK	£0.30	£0.25
MORRISONS SAVERS BIOLOGICAL LAUNDRY POWDER 3.335KG	£3.30	£2.69
MORRISONS SAVERS WASHING UP LIQUID 500ML	£0.49	£0.37

Morrisons entry level range includes ‘Morrisons Savers’, ‘Morrisons Wonky’ in produce and ‘Morrisons Essentials’ in homeware and health & beauty.

The price cuts are in all of Morrisons 498 supermarkets and the majority of products can be found online.

Where to bring in the New Year

SKIDDLE HAS FOUND THE BEST NEW YEAR’S EVE EVENTS IN EDINBURGH – SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO!

The festive season can be stressful enough as it is, with Black Friday shopping, Christmas dinner planning and travelling the country to see your loved ones. And yet, to add to the stress, 38% of us leave looking for that perfect NYE party until the last minute – scrambling for tickets between 26th – 31st December.

Skiddle, the events discovery platform, has taken one thing off your to-do list for 2022 – and found the best NYE events in Edinburgh. Get ready to send this list to the group chat and start booking, you don’t want to miss out on ringing in the New Year in style!

Hogmanay Party ft. Special guest DJ Irvine Welsh
Noir (Little White Pig)

Celebrate 2022 and welcome in the new year in style, in one of new town’s best kept secret venues. Soundtrack to your new year, provided by Special guest DJ Irvine Welsh, and local legends Mikey R, Bush, Mungo & David Lee.

Exclusive 4-course Pre-party dinner also available.

Tickets available here from £20.00.

Hogmanay Ceilidh Dance + Mad Ferret Hogmanay Hoolie
Stramash

Head to Stramash this NYE for a Hogmanay Hoolie like no other. You will be greeted with a glass of Prosecco on arrival and then taught how to Ceilidh Dance like a true Scot. ‘The Jig Show’ – Rockin ceilidh band with a modern twist, will talk you through all the dance moves and even take a short break in the middle for light refreshments.

Includes access to Mad Ferret Hogmanay Hoolie 11pm until 5am.

The Mad Ferret Band are known on the Scottish music scene for their hard hitting blend of traditional and contemporary folk music. Their lively, energetic performances are packed with “blisteringly fast mandolin solos”, tight vocal harmonies, driving Cajon beats and earth-moving guitar sounds.

Tickets available here from £35.00 + BF.

Edinburgh Hogmanay Snow Ball Ceilidh
Assembly Rooms

The Scottish capital’s biggest and best-loved indoor Hogmanay event is back for a 9th year on December 31st 2022. A cherished Edinburgh night, it’s the big one for glamour and kilts… the Real McCoy! If you’re looking for a truly top Scottish NYE event, you’ve just found it.

Treat yourself to a breathtaking night to end the old year and bring in the new – in the capital’s finest civic venue. There is, quite literally, nowhere else in town to compare. Twin ballrooms await you, sparkling in winter décor.

There’s a top, professional live ceilidh band in each magnificent ballroom: one is traditional, one contemporary. The superb Front Ballroom becomes a glitzy disco later in the night, while the dazzling Music Room Ballroom stays fully trad. Meanwhile, a spectacular drawing room becomes a silent disco – and all guests are welcome in anytime as it’s a new, fun addition.

Pop out to see the midnight fireworks, then rejoin things!

Tickets available here from £54.99 + BF.

Monsters Ball NYE 2022
Frankensteins Edinburgh

Join the monster for his annual Monster Ball this Hogmanay and join the biggest party in the city. Featuring live performers, drag queens, DJs on rotation, themed drinks and decor and much more this is an event not to be missed.

Dress to impress! Fancy dress is encouraged. (But not required).

The monster looks forward to welcoming you…

Tickets available here from £7.00 + BF.

Casino Royale – NYE 2022
LE MONDE

Le Monde is hosting an event you will not want to miss, Casino Royale – featuring casino, entertainment, themed drinks and more.

The bond themed event will include drinks reception, casino tables, entertainment, live DJs and much more.

Dress to impress, and join for the most glamourous Hogmanay party in the City.

Tickets available here from £7.50 + BF.

To find the biggest range of events in Edinburgh, including music, comedy, food + drink, festivals, attractions, theatre and more, head to the Skiddle website.

SKIDDLE HAS FOUND THE BEST NEW YEAR’S EVE EVENTS IN EDINBURGH – SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO!

The festive season can be stressful enough as it is, with Black Friday shopping, Christmas dinner planning and travelling the country to see your loved ones. And yet, to add to the stress, 38% of us leave looking for that perfect NYE party until the last minute – scrambling for tickets between 26th – 31st December.

Skiddle, the events discovery platform, has taken one thing off your to-do list for 2022 – and found the best NYE events in Edinburgh. Get ready to send this list to the group chat and start booking, you don’t want to miss out on ringing in the New Year in style!

Hogmanay Party ft. Special guest DJ Irvine Welsh

Noir (Little White Pig)

Celebrate 2022 and welcome in the new year in style, in one of new town’s best kept secret venues. Soundtrack to your new year, provided by Special guest DJ Irvine Welsh, and local legends Mikey R, Bush, Mungo & David Lee.

Exclusive 4-course Pre-party dinner also available.

Tickets available here from £20.00.

Hogmanay Ceilidh Dance + Mad Ferret Hogmanay Hoolie

Stramash

Head to Stramash this NYE for a Hogmanay Hoolie like no other. You will be greeted with a glass of Prosecco on arrival and then taught how to Ceilidh Dance like a true Scot. ‘The Jig Show’ – Rockin ceilidh band with a modern twist, will talk you through all the dance moves and even take a short break in the middle for light refreshments.

Includes access to Mad Ferret Hogmanay Hoolie 11pm until 5am.

The Mad Ferret Band are known on the Scottish music scene for their hard hitting blend of traditional and contemporary folk music. Their lively, energetic performances are packed with “blisteringly fast mandolin solos”, tight vocal harmonies, driving Cajon beats and earth-moving guitar sounds.

Tickets available here from £35.00 + BF.

Edinburgh Hogmanay Snow Ball Ceilidh

Assembly Rooms

The Scottish capital’s biggest and best-loved indoor Hogmanay event is back for a 9th year on December 31st 2022. A cherished Edinburgh night, it’s the big one for glamour and kilts… the Real McCoy! If you’re looking for a truly top Scottish NYE event, you’ve just found it.

Treat yourself to a breathtaking night to end the old year and bring in the new – in the capital’s finest civic venue. There is, quite literally, nowhere else in town to compare. Twin ballrooms await you, sparkling in winter décor.

There’s a top, professional live ceilidh band in each magnificent ballroom: one is traditional, one contemporary. The superb Front Ballroom becomes a glitzy disco later in the night, while the dazzling Music Room Ballroom stays fully trad. Meanwhile, a spectacular drawing room becomes a silent disco – and all guests are welcome in anytime as it’s a new, fun addition.

Pop out to see the midnight fireworks, then rejoin things!

Tickets available here from £54.99 + BF.

Monsters Ball NYE 2022

Frankensteins Edinburgh

Join the monster for his annual Monster Ball this Hogmanay and join the biggest party in the city. Featuring live performers, drag queens, DJs on rotation, themed drinks and decor and much more this is an event not to be missed.

Dress to impress! Fancy dress is encouraged. (But not required).

The monster looks forward to welcoming you…

Tickets available here from £7.00 + BF.

Casino Royale – NYE 2022

LE MONDE

Le Monde is hosting an event you will not want to miss, Casino Royale – featuring casino, entertainment, themed drinks and more.

The bond themed event will include drinks reception, casino tables, entertainment, live DJs and much more.

Dress to impress, and join for the most glamourous Hogmanay party in the City.

Tickets available here from £7.50 + BF.

To find the biggest range of events in Edinburgh, including music, comedy, food + drink, festivals, attractions, theatre and more, head to the Skiddle website.

Morrisons unveils food & drink offers for Hogmanay

Morrisons has unveiled a range of products and offers across food favourites, liqueurs, beers and soft drinks to bring in the new year in style.

Highlights include:

Up to 44% off 50cl-70cl liqueurs including Warnink’s Advocaat, Tia Maria Liqueur, Malibu Coconut Liqueur, Glayva Whisky Liqueur and Disaronno Amaretto (£9.99)
2 for £2.50 on Simon Howie’s range, including Black Pudding, Sliced Haggis, Beef Links, Pork Sausages and Lorne Sausage
The Famous Grouse Ruby Cask for £14 (Morrisons supermarket exclusive)

The range and offers are available until 1^st January 2023, and more information can be found online at https://groceries.morrisons.com/browse/hogmanay-187632.

Ten Christmas foods that are toxic for your pets – and warning signs to look out for

As Christmas Day draws closer, many of us will already be sneaking a taste of our favourite festive snacks. And with a lot of food thrown away over the Christmas period, you may be tempted to treat your pets to some of the leftovers.

However, some common Christmas foods can actually make our pets seriously ill, so it is important to know which ones should be avoided.

Animal health specialists at OurFitPets have put together a list of common Christmas foods that can cause serious health problems for cats and dogs, as well as advice on what you should do if your furry friend accidentally eats any of these foods.

Christmas foods you should not give to cats and dogs

Christmas pudding
Mince pies
Sage and onion stuffing
Onion gravy
Chocolate
Macadamia nuts
Blue cheese
Alcohol
Turkey bones and fat
Mouldy foods

Christmas pudding and mince pies

These common Christmas treats contain dried fruits such as raisins, sultanas and currents, all of which are particularly toxic for cats and dogs and can cause kidney failure if consumed.

Signs that your pet has poisoning from these foods include vomiting, increased thirst and urinating less frequently than normal.

Safe and onion stuffing and onion gravy

Any foods that contain vegetables of the allium variety should be off the menu for cats or dogs. This includes fresh and powered forms of aromatics such as onions, garlic, shallots, leeks and chives, which are frequently found in Christmas stuffing and gravy.

These vegetables all contain a compound called N-propyl disulfide which is damaging to your pet’s red blood cells and can cause them to develop anaemia.

Signs of allium poisoning in pets includes diarrhoea, stomach pain, as well as presenting as fatigued, weak or off their regular food.

Chocolate

Chocolate can be particularly toxic for cats and dogs as it contains a compound called theobromine, which animals can’t metabolise easily, and causes overstimulation of their muscles, including their heart.

Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are the worst offenders as they contain the highest levels of theobromine, while white chocolate is the least harmful as it contains only a small amount of the compound. Although it’s still not recommended giving your pets white chocolate, as the high levels of fat and sugar are still likely to upset their stomach.

Signs of chocolate poisoning in pets includes; vomiting, a more excitable mood or muscle twitching, elevated heart rate or breathing, tremors or twitching.

Macadamia nuts

While it’s not fully understood why Macadamia nuts are unsafe for domestic animals, consuming them can cause your cat or dog to appear weak or sleepy and can cause painful or stiff joints that may make it difficult for them to walk.

This variety of nut can also induce vomiting, tremors and raised body temperature for up to two days.

Blue cheese and mouldy foods

Blue cheese such as Roquefort contain a compound called roquefortine C, which is known to cause muscle tremors and seizures in cats and dogs for up to two days.

Like blue cheese, gone off dairy or bread products contain fungi and mould which produce mycotoxins that can produce similar negative effects for cats and dogs when ingested.

Alcohol

Animals are more sensitive to the ethanol present in alcohol than humans are. Consumption of alcohol will cause your pet to become drowsy and unstable on their feet and at worst can cause a drop in body temperature and blood sugar, which can lead to seizures or a coma.

Turkey bones and fat

While not necessarily toxic to cats and dogs, turkey bones can be brittle which means there is a high chance of them splintering and lodging in your pet’s throat or stomach.

Turkey fat and fatty foods in general, shouldn’t be given to pets in large quantities either, as they can cause stomach discomfort and diarrhoea.

Tips to prevent your pets from eating unsafe foods

Keep chocolate out of reach

It may sound obvious, but tubs of chocolate and advent calendars should be kept out of your dog’s reach or in the fridge where possible.

Remove chocolate decorations from your Christmas tree as your pets can still knock these off, even if these are hung high up.

Avoid putting chocolate selection boxes as presents under the tree, as dogs can smell them through the wrapping paper.

Keep pets in another room while eating

Try to keep your pets in a separate room of the house during Christmas dinner, to avoid them eating unsafe foods that might have dropped on the floor.

Always check the ingredients

Always check the list of ingredients in any food before feeding to your pet. Many products will contain onion or garlic powder as flavouring, which is just as harmful for your pet as the real thing.

What to do if your pet has eaten something it shouldn’t have

Even if your cat or dog has only eaten a small amount of these foods, it’s important to do the following:

Call the vet straight away – Don’t wait for your pet to start showing symptoms. A vet will be able to offer advice, and the quicker you act, the better chance your pet will have of recovery.
Note the time and quantity of food ingested – Provide the vet with as much information as you can. This includes the time your pet ate the unsafe food, brand names, the ingredient list and how much you think they consumed
Don’t try to make your pet sick – Attempting this can cause further health complications. Leave this to your vet, as they are trained to do this in a safe manner.

Aldi Scotland helps budding chefs to revitalise the humble brussels sprout

Aldi Scotland has shared three recipes to showcase the versatility of the Christmas dinner staple that is often left behind on our plates

Aldi Scotland has created three tantalising recipes that will leave the boiled, mushy brussels sprouts of our youth with a lot to answer for.

With three recipes that reinvent the scorned vegetable, Aldi is showcasing how we should all be eating our brussels this festive season. And at just 19p for a 500g as part Aldi’s super 6, each recipe offers fantastic quality for incredible value.

Working with East Lothian Produce, who have supplied the retailer with their brussels sprouts since 2012, Aldi Scotland has created three perfect dishes, including sprouts with a parmesan and garlic crumble, sprouts with a creamy mustard sauce, and a butternut and brussels pie, that showcase just how adaptable the humble vegetable can be.

East Lothian Produce and Aldi Scotland are encouraging customers to ditch the boring, boiled version we’ve all grown up with and try out the fool-proof recipes at home, which are sure to make the perfect side for your Christmas dinner.

Tracy McCullagh, East Lothian Produce, said: “Brussels sprouts are so much more versatile than you would imagine, and I think these recipes highlight how they can actually be the star of the show.

“I’d encourage Aldi customers across Scotland to give them a go – you may just surprise yourself.”

Graham Nicolson, Group Buying Director, Aldi Scotland, said: “Brussels sprouts have endured a bad reputation over the years, and we want to change that.

“East Lothian Produce’s delicious sprouts can make the basis of so many sumptuous side dishes, which is obvious in these recipes. I’m sure our customers will love this different take on the traditional vegetable.”

Recipes:

Sprouts with a parmesan, garlic, and fresh thyme crumble

Serves: 4 people

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 18 minutes

Ingredients:

600g sprouts
30g butter
30g Specially Selected parmigiano cheese
50g plain flour
3g fresh sage – chopped
1 x tsp paprika
2 x peeled garlic cloves

Method:

Pre-heat the oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas Mark 6.
Trim and wash the sprouts.
Cook in salted boiling water for 3 minutes and drain well.
Grate the Parmigiano cheese.
Mix the butter, grated cheese, sage, garlic, and flour together, then season with pepper and the paprika.
Rub the mixture together to make breadcrumbs.
Put the sprouts into an ovenproof dish – sprinkle over the crumble and bake in the oven for 15 minutes.

Sprouts with mustard cream sauce

Serves: 6 people

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cooking time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

400g sprouts, trimmed
200ml Scottish double cream
2 x tsp dijon mustard
20g pine nuts
1 x tsp paprika
8g fresh parsley
25ml olive oil infused with garlic

Method:

Pre-heat the oven to 200°C/Gas Mark 6. Cut the sprouts in half and put onto a baking sheet – drizzle over the garlic oil and bake for 10 minutes.
Chop the parsley and put in a bowl along with the cream and mustard, then season with some salt and black pepper.
Once the sprouts are cooked, transfer to a baking dish. Mix in the mustard cream. Sprinkle over the paprika and the pine nuts, then bake for a further 10 minutes.
Serve piping hot.
Butternut and brussels pie

Serves: 6 people

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cooking time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

1 butternut squash
300g brussels sprouts
2 medium red onions
200g lighter garlic & herb soft cheese
750g puff pastry
35g pecan nuts
3g fresh rosemary
100ml olive oil
Sea salt
Black pepper
1 medium Scottish egg
10ml Scottish milk
Paprika

Method:

Pre-heat the oven to 200°C/Gas Mark 6.
Peel the squash. Cut into small chunks, discarding any seeds.
Trim the sprouts. Cut in halves.
Peel and finely chop the onions.
Put the squash, sprouts and onions on a large baking sheet.
Drizzle the oil, and season with salt and pepper.
Roast in the oven for 25 minutes.
Allow to cool and put into a bowl.
Add the soft cheese.
Finely chop the rosemary and the pecan nuts, and add to the mix.
Mix all ingredients together.
Lightly grease a large baking sheet and put a pastry sheet on top.
Add the mixture on top.
Whisk the egg with the milk and paprika, then brush it on the exposed pastry.
Put the other sheet of pastry on top of the mixture.
Cut 5 slashes and brush all over with the egg and milk wash.
Bake in the oven for 40 minutes.

Aldi offers alternative air fryer Christmas dinner for budget-conscious customers this year

Aldi Scotland has developed a Christmas dinner recipe that can be made entirely in the air fryer for customers hoping to keep energy costs to a minimum this year.

The discount retailer has developed an alternative Christmas dinner recipe with BBC’s Great British Menu finalist and head chef of Edinburgh’s Angel’s with Bagpipes, Fraser Smith.

The centre piece for the Christmas dinner is Aldi’s Galloway Beef Sirloin Joint, that is paired with beef fat carrots, pancetta roast brussels sprouts, hasselback potatoes and red wine gravy.

Fraser has been trying and testing the air fryer to perfect an alternative cooking method for Christmas dinner this year.

Fraser said: “Airfryers offer a great alternative to oven cooking, they’re fast, compact and energy efficient.

“The results of cooking in them is the same as any oven, delicious and tender cooked meats and crispy delicious sides. I loved developing this recipe with Aldi and I hope others give it a try this festive season.”

Graham Nicolson, Group Buying Director, Aldi Scotland said: “We know that airfryers have soared in popularity this year and with energy costs still concerning families across Scotland we wanted to provide an alternative method to oven cooking Christmas dinner this year.

“Our take on a Christmas Dinner puts our limited edition Galloway Beef Sirloin Joint as the centre piece and provides a selection of delicious, family favourite sides.”

Roasted Galloway Beef Sirloin Joint with beef fat carrots, pancetta roast brussels sprouts, hasselback potatoes and red wine gravy

Ingredients:

4x large carrots
1x Galloway Beef Sirloin Joint
100g diced pancetta
600g brussels sprouts
750g baby potatoes
5g fresh thyme
1x bulb garlic
200ml red wine
10ml vegetable oil
Salt
Pepper

Method
For the roast:

Wash four large carrots and place on the bottom of the air frying basket.
Score the fat on the Galloway Beef Sirloin Joint, rub in salt and cracked black pepper and place on top of the carrots in the air fryer basket.
Cut the garlic in half and place that, and half the thyme, in the basket.
Put the Galloway Beef and carrots in the air fryer at 200°c for 10 mins then reduce the temp to 180°c. Cook for an additional 20 mins per 500g for rare, 25 mins per 500g for medium, and 30 mins per 500g for well done.
While cooking, take time to baste the carrot and beef every half hour.
Once the beef is cooked to your liking, remove from the air fryer, cover in foil and allow to rest at room temperature for at least 20 mins.
Place the carrots back in the fryer, at 200°c, until they are cooked – this usually take 10 to 20 minutes depending on the size.

For the brussels sprouts:

Prepare the sprouts by removing the outer leaves and cutting them in half.
Place cut side up in the basket and cover with the chopped pancetta.
Place in the airfryer at 180°c for 20 minutes.

For the potatoes:

To prepare the hassleback potatoes, place the potato on a wooden spoon and make thin vertical slices through the potato being mindful not to cut all the way through – the wooden spoon should stop you cutting all the way through and splitting the potato.
Brush the slices potatoes with oil and sprinkle over some of the remaining thyme sprigs.
Place in air fryer at 200°c for 35 mins or until crispy.
This can be done in advance and the potatoes reheated just before serving.

For the gravy:

Make up some Aldi Specially Selected Beef Gravy as per instruction.
Add a splash of red wine to a warm pan, and reduce by half. Add this to the pre-made gravy.

Enjoy!